The Place:
One of a number of new restaurants to open in the newest MixC World in Nanshan District and within walking distance of Houhai Metro Station, Brownstone is an accessible and bustling destination for foodies and shoppers alike. We also felt that the restaurant’s choice of decor and food and style made it the most inviting shop (we have to admit we are still somewhat intimidated by the Oy Oyster next door) and probably the most visible too.
Image by Bryan Grogan/That's
The Food:
To begin our journey through the foodie plains of Espana, we tucked into Brownstone’s grilled Spain lamb chop (RMB58 for two pieces.) Super juicy with a hint of cumin and just the right fat content, the meat comes topped with cooked sliced almonds. The outer texture of the lamb chops is flaky, and soft, succulent pieces of meat fall away with ease.
Image by Bryan Grogan/That's
To accompany the lamb chops, we chose some tapas, or appetizers. First, we ordered the pan-fried mushrooms (RMB36) out of concern for our post-CNY waistline. The shrooms proved to be a tasty treat and a perfect topping for a noodle or rice dish. The half mushroom heads are fantastically juicy, again grilled and burnished a nice shade of tasty. Another dish we tried was the cohesive and well-condensed Spanish omelette (RMB36) which looks more like a cake, and comes divided into three slices. Containing peppers and onions, this one contains plenty of Latin spice, with a dollop of sweet spring onion sauce on top.
Image by Bryan Grogan/That's
To cap our meal off, we sampled one of the outlet’s gin specialties, the Gorden elf (RMB58). An interesting combination of mango and orange, with lemon juice also in evidence, this drink is a mixture of tame flavors. The presence of the Bombay gin is, however, a bit too strong and overwhelms the other flavors. While the food is great, their drinks could use a little bit more work.
The Vibe:
Image by Bryan Grogan/That's
Creating a Spanish vibe sometimes seems to follow a set formula. There’s something about Spain, perhaps the dusty landscape, that makes us think of shades of red ochre and yellow. Brownstone, with its rich color-scheme, is a perfect representation of our traditional notion of Spain. Music, colors and the lingering scents of the food, which emanate from the open kitchen near the back of the outlet, all ensure a wholly sensuous and relaxing experience.
Price: RMB100-250
Who’s going: Spaniards, tired shoppers
Good for: tapas, selfies, a taste of Europe
Nearest metro: Houhai (Exit G), 10 minutes’ walk
Open daily, 10am-1am. See listing for Brownstone Tapas & Lounge.
[Cover image by Bryan Grogan/That's]
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